Advocacy

Learn how advocacy services can provide you with support to help your views get heard and have your say. 

Do I need an advocate?

An advocate can speak on your behalf if you are unable to speak for yourself.

You may need an advocate if you:

  • Are using services provided by us and you feel that nobody is listening to you.
  • Need help making your own decisions.
  • Feel you are being deprived of your liberty.
  • Are making a complaint about health services.
  • Think that you need care and support from us.
  • Are being treated under the Mental Health Act.

What an advocate can help with

An advocate will:

  • Listen to you.
  • Help you make decisions.
  • Help you get information you need.
  • Help you write down what you want to say.
  • Attend meetings with you if you ask them to.
  • Speak up on your behalf but only if you want them to.

They will not:

  • Give advice or opinions.
  • Make judgement.
  • Solve problems.

How I can get an advocate

Advocacy in Nottinghamshire is provided by Your Voice, Your Choice.

Further support

There are other sources of support for people who may need help:

Nottinghamshire Help Yourself also lists a number of organisations who provide advocacy services.